Arum italicum, also known as Italian arum, is an elegant and versatile perennial, prized for its striking foliage and ornamental berries, making it a captivating addition to any UK garden. Thriving in a partially shaded to fully shaded position with well-draining soil, Arum italicum adds texture and interest to woodland gardens, borders, or as a graceful accent in containers.

Although primarily grown for its foliage, Arum italicum does produce small, inconspicuous flowers in late spring, followed by clusters of bright orange-red berries in autumn, adding seasonal interest to the garden. With a height of approximately 30-45cm, it forms a compact and tidy clump, making it suitable for edging or mixed plantings.

Arum italicum generally doesn’t require feeding, as it’s quite low-maintenance once established. However, incorporating organic matter into the soil during planting can promote healthy growth and vigor.

In addition to its ornamental value, Arum italicum provides food and shelter for pollinators such as bees and flies. While the flowers are not showy, they still attract these beneficial insects, contributing to the biodiversity and ecological balance of the garden.

In summary, Arum italicum is a graceful and resilient perennial that not only adds beauty to the garden but also provides essential habitat and food for pollinators, enhancing the overall health and vitality of the local ecosystem.